Fix Your Internet Connection Problems When You Can't Connect

While Internet connection problems cause major frustration at best, for others it is a more serious matter. Many livelihoods depend on a dependable Internet connection. Consequently, a few minutes of preparation for this digital disaster makes good sense.

Lost Internet Connection? The Culprit
Often a corrupted Internet connection follows spyware removal. It's as if the spyware gets the last word the next time the computer is rebooted.

As such, Internet connection problems result from corrupted files or altered Internet settings on your computer. The Internet connection remains present but unusable.

Unfortunately, when Internet connection problems arise from spyware, technical support from an Internet Service Provider (ISP) may be limited. The better ISPs will try to help, but their responsibility typically ends with providing Internet service.

If you cannot access the Internet due to spyware, you may be on your own.

Fixing Internet Connection Problems
Fortunately, even novices can fix an Internet connection problem caused by spyware - thanks to free software designed for this task.

These small, easy and effective programs return the Internet settings back to their original state.

[Geek Speak: A damaged Internet connection may be due to a corrupted Winsock or TCP/IP stack, exactly what these programs are designed to fix.]

While a basic understanding of Internet protocols helps when repairing an Internet connection problem, this knowledge is often unnecessary.

Troubleshoot and Fix Internet Connections Problems
Among the alternatives to access the Internet and fix Internet connection problems include:

Software Fix
Mozilla Safe Mode
Command Line
Safe Mode with Network Access
System Restore

Software Options

XP TCP/IP Repair, Winsock XP Fix, and LSPFix are three programs designed to fix some Internet connection problems.

The first two programs work with Windows XP machines, but may also support Microsoft Vista. [Check for updates at the respective Web sites.]

Though both TCP/IP Repair and Winsock XP Fix are similar, it doesn't hurt to have both, should one fail to work.

Simply download the programs and select repair as indicated in the program. No decision-making is necessary.

Reboot the computer if needed to repair the Internet connection problem.

For Advanced Users

Additionally, LSPFix is an important tool for fixing corrupted Winsock files However, it should be used with caution by the non-expert. There is no harm in running the program but consult technical support if needed before removing files.

Why FireFox Should Be On Your Computer
Even if you favor the Internet Explorer Web browser, the Mozilla FireFox browser can provide emergency help for Internet connection problems.

First, FireFox contains a "Safe Mode" option; This disables features that may be involved with Internet connection problems.

Second, Internet Explorer is more vulnerable to spyware attacks. Often neither Web browser will work, but FireFox will improve your chances for Internet access.

Other Options for Internet Connection Problems
Several reasons exist for Internet connection problems or Web browser issues and not all of them are spyware related.

An informative article on Internet Explorer issues is available at the Microsoft Web site, some of it designed for advanced users.

Following are some highlights that may enable you to fix an Internet connection problem:

First, the Command Line can be used to make repairs similar to what LSPFix accomplishes. Should you have already lost your Internet connection and do not have this program, try this:

Click on the Start button
Click on Run
Type CMD in the dialog box, click OK.
Type: netsh winsock reset into the window

Delete Offline Content and Index.dat File
While you can delete temporary files and offline content, and should do so, when experiencing Internet connection problems, standard procedures may not work.

A file named Index.dat also needs deletion if corrupted. A number of programs are listed at index-dat.vista-files.org. Both freeware and shareware is included. Among them, Tracks Eraser is among one of the easiest to use.

When All Else Fails to Fix Internet Connection Problems
Unless more serious problems exist, the computer can be rebooted in Safe Mode with Networking (Internet Access) capability. Typically, upon reboot hold down the F8 key. If successful, a menu will appear to select the Safe Mode with Networking option.

If this works you will be able to download needed programs to fix your Internet connection properly. Don't depend on this capability though, it may not work.

An absolute last resort for Internet connection problems is to restore your system to the pre-spyware removal state using System Restore.

Again use the F8 key, but when prompted, click Cancel when entering Safe Mode (no Networking).

This may buy time to download the aforementioned programs in addition to ones you may need to fix spyware-related issues.

Ensure the spyware is removed again, and consider technical support before rebooting.

This is not a recommended solution to fix Internet connection problems; Reinstalled spyware may cause more damage. Do this with the calculated risk considered.

Conclusion
Better protect yourself against Internet connection problems and download WindowsXP Fix and/or XP TCP/IP Repair (or the equivalent for your operating system) as well as LSPFix.

Obtain a copy of Mozilla FireFox if needed. Lastly, print instructions such as these before Internet connection problems arise. For optimum protection learn about the program HijackThis to fix more troublesome spyware-related problems.